This Saturday, April 11, is the 20th anniversary of National Pet Day. Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and pet expert, founded this observance in 2006 to celebrate the joy pets can bring. She also sought to highlight the ongoing needs of pets waiting in shelters to be adopted, encouraging people to follow the popular motto “Adopt! Don’t Shop!”

Pets are not just cute and fun members of our families, they are also beneficial to our health – both physically and mentally. The health benefits of pet ownership have been studied for nearly 40 years. The research is clear that our furry friends are helping us enjoy healthier and happier lives.

By keeping us company and providing companionship, our pets help to decrease feelings of loneliness, depression and anxiety. In addition, our animals make us laugh and smile, which helps to boost our mood and overall sense of well-being.

Interacting with pets can actually boost the production of oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine, which are considered our “happy hormones.” This not only helps us feel better, but it also lowers the levels of our stress hormones.

This is why therapy dogs are often brought into healthcare facilities to help reduce patients’ stress and anxiety. Pets can provide us with the comfort and support we need. Studies have even shown that pets can help children develop emotional and social skills, especially kids with autism, ADHD and other conditions.

For older adults, pet ownership can boost cognitive health. In fact, a 2023 study found that older adults who owned a pet for more than five years scored higher on regular cognitive tests than those who didn’t own pets.

One of the most important benefits for pet owners of all ages is increased physical activity. Owning a pet not only encourages us to get outside for fresh air but also to exercise more.

Increasing these healthy habits can lead to better fitness levels and/or weight loss. Plus, regularly walking or playing with our animals can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels and blood sugar levels.

Pet ownership isn’t just fun, it’s good for our health. So in honor of National Pet Day, take a minute to thank your favorite animal for helping you be a healthier human!

Sources:
American Heart Association
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Mayo Clinic
National Institutes of Health, News in Health